Bacon Pickle Poppers

This Bacon Pickle Poppers recipe is the appetizer you have been missing in your life! The salty, savory and cheesy will even make pickle hater turn into pickle lovers!

Ingredients:

• 12 small pickles (baby dills or cornichons work best)
• 6 slices of bacon, cut in half to make 12 shorter strips
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (for added heat)
• Toothpicks for securing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pickles:
   • Start by slicing each pickle in half lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through. You want to create a small pocket inside each pickle for the cheese filling.
2. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and chopped jalapeño (if using). Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Stuff the Pickles:
   • Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each pickle with the cheese mixture, pressing the filling into the pocket you created in step 1.
4. Wrap with Bacon:
   • Take a half strip of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed pickle, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon is wrapped snugly so it holds the cheese filling in place during cooking.
5. Cooking Options:Oven Baking:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Place the bacon-wrapped pickles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
   • Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
   Grilling:
   • Preheat your grill to medium heat.
   • Place the bacon-wrapped pickles on the grill, turning occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
6. Serve:
   • Once cooked, let the Bacon Pickle Poppers cool slightly.
   • Arrange them on a serving platter and serve immediately while still warm.

These Bacon Pickle Poppers are a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, smoky, and tangy. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering, or even just as a fun snack for movie night at home. Enjoy!